2021-2024 BMW Steering Column Thump & Hum Noise TSB

Owners of various 2021-2024 BMW models may experience unusual noises when operating their electric steering column. BMW has released Service Information Bulletin SI B32 02 23 to address these concerns, specifically targeting a BMW electric steering column noise that manifests as a thump or hum.

This bulletin, which replaces an earlier version dated August 2023, provides a detailed procedure for technicians to correct the issue, ensuring a smoother and quieter operation of the steering column.

Symptoms of Electric Steering Column Noise

Owners might notice two distinct types of BMW electric steering column noise:

• A one-time thump sound at the start of movement: This noise occurs shortly after the steering column begins moving, whether retracting or extending. BMW provides video V32 03 23 to illustrate this specific symptom.
• Humming noise while steering column extends in the axial direction: This humming sound is typically heard only when the steering column is extended, not when it is retracted. It becomes audible as the steering column starts to move in the extended direction. This symptom is demonstrated in video V32 04 23.

Cause of the Noise

The root cause of the BMW electric steering column noise is an excessively high break-away force within the spline shaft. This force creates frictional vibration when the steering shaft begins to move. The bulletin attributes this high break-away force to inadequate distribution or thickening of grease in certain areas of the splined shaft, which is part of the steering wheel shaft (internal BMW model codes F90, F91, F92, F93, F95, F96, G05, G06, G07, G12, G14, G15, G16, G30, G32 are affected).

Important Warnings

BMW explicitly states that additional lubrication is not permitted as part of this correction. The procedure focuses solely on redistributing the existing grease to resolve the BMW electric steering column noise.

Repair Procedure Summary

The correction for the BMW electric steering column noise involves redistributing the grease within the internal gearing of the steering wheel shaft. The procedure, identified by repair code 3231153900, includes several steps for qualified technicians:

1. Steering Wheel Removal: The steering wheel must be removed according to repair instructions REP 32 33 001/501 or REP 32 33 010/510.
2. Column Extension: The steering column is moved to its fully extended position towards the driver.
3. Grease Redistribution: Using a long, thin object, such as a vacuum hose at least 30cm long, the technician will carefully insert it into the internal gearing of the steering wheel shaft to evenly distribute the grease. The bulletin notes that grease may be pooled at the bottom of the shaft and needs to be pulled up for even distribution. Video V32 05 23 provides visual guidance for this step.

Warranty Information and Labor Operations

This repair is covered under the terms of the BMW New Vehicle Limited Warranty for Passenger Cars and Light Trucks. Technicians will use specific labor operation codes for diagnosis and repair:

• Diagnosis: Labor operation 32 99 000* (Diagnosing and verifying specific noises) or 00 58 500* (Diagnosis Worktime Flat Rate).
• Steering Wheel Removal/Installation: Labor operations such as 32 33 001, 32 33 501, 32 33 010, or 32 33 510 apply.
• Grease Rework: Labor operation 32 99 000** is used for the work time to rework the grease distribution.

Additional labor operation codes (32 33 900, 32 33 800, 32 33 801) may also apply depending on the specific vehicle configuration.

What Owners Should Do

If your 2021-2024 BMW exhibits a thump or humming noise from the electric steering column, contact your authorized BMW dealership. Reference Service Information Bulletin SI B32 02 23 when scheduling your service appointment. The dealership will perform the necessary diagnostic and repair procedures under warranty to resolve the BMW electric steering column noise.

NHTSA ID: 10249017